About a month ago, Duncanville High School, in North Texas suspended 150 students for dress code infractions. Things as minor as an untucked shirt or chin stubble ended with suspension. This was two weeks before the end of the year, before exams. The students protested in response to the suspensions. Schools like Duncanville High School have large populations of Black and Latino students. Just one suspension can double a student’s chance of dropping out. 68% of the incarcerated male population don’t hold a high school diploma. Is suspension the appropriate punishment for something, like dress code, that ultimately has very little to do with learning?

Mitra Kaboli

Mitra Kaboli is a breakfast enthusiast in addition to being a freelance Audio Engineer and Media Producer. She is one the directors and producers of the Audio Smut podcast. She is currently with WNYC & Latino USA.